The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the suspension of sale of the seized food items in Lagos State. The decision followed the stampede that claimed seven Nigerian lives at NCS Old Zonal Headquarters in the Yaba area of Lagos State, where a 25kg bag of rice sold for N10, 000.
A statement released by Abdullahi Maiwada, a spokesperson for the Nigeria Customs Service, announced the suspension to the public, noting that The disposal of the food items got off to a smooth start at about 0800hrs. We enjoyed the cooperation of the large crowd that obliged us, giving preferences to the elderly, people living with disabilities, pregnant women, and other vulnerable Nigerians who showed up for the exercise. This was the case up until about 1700hrs, as attested to by the over 5000 beneficiaries and members of the press.”
The statement also gave an insight to the cause of the crisis. According to Maiwada , However, unforeseen challenges arose when we ran out of stock and announced the continuation of the exercise the following day, leading to a regrettable outcome.”
Apparently, people who had gathered to await their turn did not believe the officials. What happened next showed that they wanted to help themselves to whatever was left of the food items, and so pushed against the barricade mounted by the Customs officials. He said, The crowd became desperate and charged through our barricades in search of rice bags inside emptied containers. In the stampede that ensued, some fatalities and injuries were regrettably recorded.
Considering the recent unfortunate event, we regrettably announce the suspension of this exercise until we establish what transpired on Friday, 23 February 2024.
This should help us to properly articulate more robust and comprehensive action that will not defeat the noble intention.